Mission

Discover the history and mission of the Aquaculture Genetics and Breeding Technology Center (ABC) at VIMS, established in 1997 to advance eastern oyster breeding and provide improved broodstock for commercial aquaculture.

Mission Statement

ABC exists for the continuous improvement of oyster aquaculture through the manipulation and control of the genetics and culture of the oyster. These improvements, through application of cutting-edge research, have regional impact and worldwide application. We address the requirements of industry for a more-profitable enterprise by running a breeding and applied-research program, which comprises a research hatchery, labs, and farms that are staffed with technicians, students, and trainees.

 

History

Please check back later - our history is still being written

 

Though they are no longer in use today, take a look at the previous VIMS oyster hatcheries, located in the boat basin of the Gloucester point campus, as well as the Kauffman Aquaculture Center in Topping, VA

{{youtube:large|odQFazJlF8E, Take a tour of the VIMS oyster hatchery that was in operation until 2023 }} 

 {{youtube:large|EU2kPlpC88k,Take a virtual tour of the Kauffman Aquaculture Center with field specialist Shelley Katsuki.  The Kauffman Aquaculture Center was first opened as a quarantine facility to explore the possible introduction of non-native oyster species, before transitioning to a specialized polyploid breeding facility}}